If you’re the victim of a bad credit report and you haven’t done anything wrong, the problem may be your name. Mix-ups happen all the time, and one fiscally irresponsible John or Joan Smith can ruin it for all those who take their finances seriously. Take these precautions if you have a common name:

• Always include your full first name and middle initial on credit applications – The more complete your name, the better your chances that it won’t get mixed up with another person with a similar name. Be sure to use the Jr. or Sr. designation.
• Be consistent – All your credit cards should have the same exact name. If one has Jane Davis, another has Jane J. Davis, and yet another Janie Davis, you’re just asking for a mistaken credit history.
• Check your credit report regularly – Your Social Security number may get copied incorrectly somewhere along the line, or the credit report agencies might mistakenly add information from someone of a similar name.
• Correct errors right away – Contact creditors directly. Be polite but persistent. The last thing you want to do is argue with a collection agency over a bill that isn’t yours.